Monitoring Audio Levels With Blackmagic Cameras

Blackmagic cameras are known for their advanced features that allow users to create the same look as Hollywood feature films. While these cameras have long been able to display audio levels, the feature was notably absent from the Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera until the release of firmware 1.9.3. This update allows users to see what kind of levels they're recording for audio, with audio meters on the heads-up display (HUD) that can be adjusted with a simple tap. For those using an iPhone with the Blackmagic Camera App, it is currently not possible to control audio levels (AUDIO GAIN) on the app, but this can be done using an external audio mixer.

Using an external audio mixer

When using a Blackmagic camera, you may want to adjust the audio levels to avoid clipping. One way to do this is by using an external audio mixer.

An external audio mixer with a built-in audio meter can be used to adjust the audio levels going into your Blackmagic camera. This method can be more expensive than using the camera's internal audio settings, as you will need to purchase additional equipment. However, it offers more control over your audio levels.

When choosing an external audio mixer, look for one that has a built-in audio meter and VU meters. This will allow you to accurately monitor and adjust your audio levels. You can also use isolating, over-the-ear headphones to adjust the levels by listening for clipping.

Some recommended external audio mixers include the iRig Quattro and the JuicedLink preamp with VU meters. These options can provide more precise control over your audio levels and improve the overall quality of your recordings.

Additionally, Blackmagic's ATEM range offers a variety of live production switchers with built-in audio mixers. These switchers provide a range of features, including multiple camera inputs, streaming capabilities, and audio mixing. The ATEM Mini, for example, has buttons for audio mixing and a Fairlight audio mixer. The ATEM Television Studio also includes a built-in Fairlight audio mixer and allows for complex live sound mixing.

By using an external audio mixer, you can have more control over your audio levels and improve the overall quality of your recordings with your Blackmagic camera.

Using a video monitor

The Blackmagic Video Assist monitor has two SD card slots, allowing for continuous recording, and the 7" model has two mini XLR audio inputs with phantom power, enabling direct recording from microphones. The monitor can be rigged onto your camera, providing a more comfortable viewing experience and better situational awareness for the operator, assistant, or director.

Another option is the Blackmagic Audio Monitor 12G, which has a large audio meter with accurate ballistics and can be installed anywhere due to its compact 1RU size. It includes a 12G-SDI input for monitoring audio from professional video equipment, as well as an HDMI video output, allowing you to use a large-screen TV or computer monitor for broadcast monitoring. The Blackmagic Audio Monitor 12G also features an HDMI monitoring output, which converts the selected input to HDMI, making it suitable for both SDI and HDMI cameras.

Both the Blackmagic Video Assist and the Blackmagic Audio Monitor 12G can help you see the audio levels on your Blackmagic camera by providing visual audio meters and monitoring solutions.

Using isolating headphones

A good pair of isolating, over-the-ear headphones will help you block out external sounds and focus on the audio you are recording. Look for headphones with noise-cancelling technology, which uses a built-in microphone to detect and neutralize external sounds. This ensures that the sound is not only blocked but actively cancelled out.

When choosing isolating headphones, consider the following:

• Comfort: Look for padded ear cups and headband, preferably with memory foam for a luxury experience. Adjustable headbands and cups will also ensure a perfect fit.
• Design: Opt for closed-back models, as these are better at blocking out sound. Also, consider the style and colour of the headphones to suit your personality.
• Sound Quality: Go for larger drivers, preferably 40mm or bigger, to support all genres of music. A wider frequency response range will also enhance your listening experience, with a minimum standard of 10Hz to 20,000Hz.
• Battery Life: If your headphones have active noise-cancelling technology, consider the battery life and charging time. A battery life of around 30 hours is ideal, so you don't have to worry about running out of charge.
• Connectivity: Most modern headphones are wireless and use Bluetooth technology. Ensure the headphones you choose have a stable and uninterrupted connection.
• Additional Features: Some headphones come with built-in microphones, voice assistant compatibility, and dedicated apps to customize your experience.
• Bose QuietComfort 35: These headphones offer three levels of noise cancellation technology and are known for their world-class sound. They also feature adjustable comfort settings, a built-in microphone, and compatibility with the Bose AR application.
• Plantronics BackBeat: These headphones produce incredible sound, with excellent resolution and optimization for all frequency levels. They also feature Active Noise Cancellation technology and a long-lasting battery life of up to 24 hours.
• Mpow H5 Bluetooth: These headphones have passed a 10,000+ bending durability test and offer adjustable sides and soft, padded ear cushions for maximum comfort. They also provide up to 30 hours of battery life and use Active Noise Cancellation technology for superior sound quality.
• COWIN E7 Active Noise: With a customer satisfaction rating of 4.5/5 from over 21,000 reviews, these headphones offer active noise cancellation, large 45mm drivers, a high-definition microphone, and seven unique design options.
• Sony MDRZX110NC: These wired noise-isolating headphones provide a frequency response range of 10Hz to 22,000Hz and feature 30mm drivers that cover the full frequency range. They also offer an impressive 80 hours of battery life on a single charge.

By using any of these recommended headphones or similar products, you'll be able to effectively monitor audio levels while using your Blackmagic camera.

Using VU meters

The VU meter is a tool used to measure the volume level of an audio signal. It is often used in recording and broadcast studios to ensure that the audio levels are within the optimal range. Here are some tips on how to use VU meters effectively with Blackmagic cameras:

• Understanding VU Meters: VU meters typically have a range from −20 dB to +3 dB, with 0 dB representing the optimal level for audio signals. The meter may be labelled as VU (−18dBFS) or VU (−20dBFS), depending on the calibration.
• Adjusting Audio Levels: To adjust the audio levels on your Blackmagic camera, you can use the manual audio recording levels in the camera's audio settings screen. Increase or decrease the input level until you reach the desired volume.
• External Preamp/Mixer: If your Blackmagic camera does not have built-in VU meters, you may need to use an external preamp or mixer with a built-in audio meter. This will allow you to monitor and adjust the audio levels more accurately.
• Headphones for Monitoring: As suggested by Blackmagic, using a good pair of isolating, over-the-ear headphones can help you adjust audio levels effectively. You can listen for clipping or distortion and adjust the levels accordingly.
• Audio Meters in Blackmagic Camera App: When using the Blackmagic Camera app on iOS or Android, you can monitor and adjust audio levels using the on-screen VU meters. Simply tap the audio meters to set the audio gain for compatible external audio sources.
• Audio Meter Display: The audio meters in the Blackmagic Camera app can be displayed by swiping up or down to show the heads-up display (HUD). This will give you a clear view of the audio levels and allow you to make adjustments as needed.
• Audio Level Indicators: Pay attention to the peak audio levels indicated on the VU meter. To avoid distortion, the levels should fall within the upper end of the green zone. This ensures that the audio is not too loud or too soft.

By following these tips and utilizing VU meters effectively, you can ensure that your audio levels are properly adjusted and optimized for your Blackmagic camera recordings.

Using the Blackmagic Camera app

The Blackmagic Camera app gives you a range of professional features for your iPhone or iPad, allowing you to create the same cinematic look as Hollywood films.

The app has an intuitive and user-friendly interface, similar to Blackmagic's award-winning cameras. It offers interactive controls, so you can tap any item to instantly change settings without searching through complex menus.

The Heads Up Display (HUD) shows the most important camera controls, such as lens selection, frame rate, shutter angle, timecode, ISO, white balance, and audio levels. You can adjust settings like exposure by touching the ISO indicator or change the audio levels by touching the audio meters.

The settings tab gives you access to advanced settings like monitoring, audio, camera setup, and recording. The record tab allows you to control video resolution and recording format, including industry-standard Apple ProRes, H.264, and H.265. You can also set anamorphic de-squeeze and lens correction settings.

Professional audio options include VU or PPM audio metering, and you can add external microphones. You can monitor the recording levels of internal or external microphones using the audio meters. To avoid distortion, peak audio levels should fall within the upper end of the green zone.

The Blackmagic Camera app also has a media tab, which allows you to browse, review, search, and sort your media clips. You can also view upload status and sync media directly into a DaVinci Resolve project for editing.

Additional Features

• Remote camera control: Control multiple phones with the app and monitor captures remotely.
• HD captures: Capture HD footage at 100 fps on iPhone 15 Pro.
• Live sync to Blackmagic Cloud Storage: Instantly upload proxy files followed by camera originals to Blackmagic Cloud.
• Timecode input: Keep footage perfectly synced with support for timecode input from an external generator like Tentacle Sync.
• Vertical video support: Shoot vertical videos for social media with the Enable Vertical Video feature.
• External microphone support: Connect and select external microphones in the Audio Source settings.
• Audio format and recording options: Choose from AAC, Linear PCM, or IEEE Float audio formats and Mono, Stereo, Dual Mono, or 4 Channel recording options.

Frequently asked questions